Woolen Spun vs Worsted Spun - What's the Difference?

Woolen Spun vs. Worsted Spun Yarn: What’s the Difference?

If you’re new to yarn or just curious about the different types, you might have heard the terms “woolen spun” and “worsted spun.” These words describe how yarn is made, and understanding the difference can help you choose the right yarn for your projects.

What is Woolen Spun Yarn?

Woolen spun yarn is made with fibres that are short, fluffy, and loosely twisted together. Imagine a big, cozy cloud of wool! The fibres in woolen spun yarn go in all directions, which gives it a soft and airy feel. 

Because of how it’s spun, woolen yarn traps air, making it warmer and lighter. This makes it great for cozy projects like sweaters, scarves, and hats. Woolen spun yarn is also a bit fuzzier and may have a slightly uneven texture, which adds character to your projects. 

Best for:

• Warm, lightweight garments
• Textured or rustic-looking projects
• Knitting for warmth, like hats, mittens, or blankets

What is Worsted Spun Yarn? 

Worsted spun yarn, on the other hand, is made with longer fibers that are combed straight before being tightly twisted together. This process makes the yarn smoother, shinier, and stronger than woolen spun yarn.

Worsted spun yarn doesn’t trap as much air, so it’s not as warm or light as woolen spun, but it’s more durable and gives your projects a smoother, more polished look. This yarn is great for detailed stitches, like cables or lace, because it shows off the texture really well.

Best for:

• Crisp, smooth fabrics
• Projects that need durability, like socks or bags
• Patterns that have a lot of detail, like cables or lacework

How to Choose Between Them

Choosing between woolen spun and worsted spun yarn depends on what you want your finished project to be like. If you’re going for warmth and a soft, cozy texture, woolen spun is the way to go. But if you want a smooth, sturdy fabric with lots of stitch definition, worsted spun yarn is a better choice.

In summary:

• Woolen spun: Fluffy, warm, lightweight, and a bit fuzzy.
• Worsted spun: Smooth, durable, and great for detailed work.

Both types of yarn have their strengths, so next time you’re picking out yarn, think about the look and feel you want for your project.

Happy Making!